Socio-economic problems of senior citizens and their adjustment in Punjab, Pakistan.

摘要

Aging has emerged as a global phenomenon. Today the number of aged persons is estimated to be 605 million in the world. This increasing aging population is presenting the most difficult challenges for both the developed and developing countries. Pakistani society, where traditionally the elders are respected and their care is still recognized as a family responsibility, is also facing problems arising out of the changing times. The present study identifies the socio-economic problems and factors affecting the adjustment of senior citizens in Punjab. A random sample of 600 respondents comprised of women and men of age 60 years or above was studied through pre-designed questionnaire from urban and rural areas of district Faisalabad and district Sargodha. Univariate and bivariate analysis demonstrate that the social adjustment in old age was found to be strongly associated with the social problems, economic problems, structure of the family, personal monthly income of the respondent and monthly income of the family. Social adjustment in old age was also consistently found to be associated with marital status, gender and education of the respondents. The study proposed that family institutions should be strengthened. Reemployment opportunities also need special focus.